Naloxone: How to Get It and Use It to Reverse an Overdose
Naloxone can reverse an opioid overdose in minutes — and you do not need a prescription to get it in Delaware. Learn how to recognize an overdose, how to use naloxone step by step, where to find it, and what to do next.
Angela Robinson
Naloxone is a safe, easy-to-use medication that can rapidly reverse an opioid overdose. It is available in Delaware without a prescription at many pharmacies and through community programs, and it comes as a nasal spray or injection. Knowing how to recognize an overdose and use naloxone can save a life.1
Key takeaways
- Naloxone reverses opioid overdoses within minutes.
- It is available in Delaware without a prescription.
- It is safe and has no effect if no opioids are present.
- Always call 911 — naloxone is a bridge, not a replacement for care.
What is naloxone?
Naloxone (often sold as Narcan) is an opioid antagonist: it quickly blocks the effects of opioids on the brain and restores normal breathing during an overdose. It only works on opioids and cannot be misused to get high.1
How do you recognize an opioid overdose?
Signs of an opioid overdose include unresponsiveness, slow or stopped breathing, gurgling or choking sounds, blue or grayish lips and fingertips, and very small ("pinpoint") pupils. If you are unsure whether it is an overdose, it is safest to act — naloxone will not harm someone who has not taken opioids.2
How do you use naloxone step by step?
| Step | What to do |
|---|---|
| 1. Call 911 | Report a suspected overdose and follow the dispatcher's guidance |
| 2. Give naloxone | Spray one dose into a nostril, or inject per the kit's instructions |
| 3. Support breathing | Give rescue breaths and keep the airway clear if trained |
| 4. Wait 2–3 minutes | If no response, give a second dose |
| 5. Stay with them | Place them on their side and remain until help arrives |
Where can you get naloxone in Delaware?
Naloxone is widely available without a prescription at many retail pharmacies, and free or low-cost naloxone is distributed through community and harm reduction programs. Ask a pharmacist directly, or contact local public-health programs about free kits and training.
Is naloxone safe? Any side effects?
Naloxone is very safe. Its main effect in someone dependent on opioids is to trigger sudden withdrawal, which is uncomfortable but not life-threatening. It has no effect and causes no harm if the person has not taken opioids, which is why bystanders should not hesitate to use it.2
What happens after an overdose reversal?
Because naloxone wears off in 30–90 minutes, the overdose can return — so emergency care is essential even after someone wakes up. A reversal is also a critical moment to connect to treatment. You can explore medical detox and browse Delaware treatment centers to take the next step.
For free, confidential help any time, call the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357.3 If someone is overdosing, call 911 immediately.